8 preventative maintenance items homeowners miss

Worried about costly or dangerous outcomes from missing home maintenance? You have good reason. As a homeowner, the burden of preventive maintenance falls on you. And, given your busy schedule, it’s impossible to catch everything.

To help you stress less, here are some of the most common maintenance tasks we see homeowners missing, as well as what could happen if you neglect them:

1. Clean Gutters

Gutters direct rainwater away from your home, preventing foundation damage, basement flooding, and exterior deterioration. Cleaning them at least twice a year—typically in spring and fall—removes leaves, dirt, and debris that can cause clogs. To perform this task, use a ladder, scoop out debris by hand or with a tool, and flush the system with water to ensure proper drainage. Neglecting this maintenance can lead to overflowing gutters, roof leaks, structural water damage, and even pest infestations.

2. Remove Roof Moss, Mildew, and Mold

Moss, mildew, and mold hold moisture against roofing materials, accelerating deterioration and increasing the risk of leaks. An annual cleaning, particularly in shaded or humid areas, helps preserve roof integrity. Apply a moss-killing solution or a diluted bleach mixture, then gently scrub with a soft-bristle brush before rinsing. Installing zinc or copper strips can help prevent regrowth. Failure to remove these growths can result in premature roof aging, costly repairs, and indoor mold issues.

3. Clean Clothes Dryer Vent

Lint buildup in dryer vents restricts airflow, reducing efficiency and posing a serious fire hazard. Cleaning the vent at least once a year improves operation. To clean, disconnect the vent hose, use a vacuum or specialized vent brush to remove lint, and check the external vent for obstructions. Ignoring this can lead to overheating, higher energy bills, increased drying times, and potentially dangerous dryer fires.

4. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are critical for home safety, alerting occupants to fires or deadly gas leaks. They should be tested monthly by pressing the test button and batteries should be replaced at least once a year, with full unit replacement every 10 years. Dusting and vacuuming detectors help maintain sensitivity. Neglecting this increases the risk of undetected fires or carbon monoxide exposure, potentially leading to property damage, serious injury, or death.

5. Test GFCI Outlets

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets prevent electrical shocks by shutting off power when a fault is detected. Testing them every three months by pressing the “test” button and ensuring the “reset” button restores power confirms their functionality. If an outlet fails to trip, it should be replaced. Failure to maintain GFCI outlets can result in increased risk of electrical shock, electrocution, or fire hazards, especially in wet areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces.

6. Check and replace Hot Water Heater Anode

The anode rod in commona water heaters prevents tank corrosion by attracting corrosive elements in the water. It should be inspected every two years and replaced approximately every five years, depending on water hardness and usage. Replacing it involves draining a small amount of water from the tank, unscrewing the old rod, and installing a new one. Neglecting this allows rust to form inside the tank, leading to leaks, sediment buildup, reduced efficiency, and eventual tank failure.

7. Clean Front-Loading Washer Gasket

The rubber gasket in a front-loading washer traps moisture, creating a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Wiping the gasket dry after each use and leaving the door open to allow airflow helps prevent odors and buildup. You can remove residue by cleaning with a vinegar or bleach solution, or replace the gasket entirely. If ignored, mold growth can cause persistent bad smells, stained clothing, and potential health issues due to airborne mold spores.

8. Detect Water Leaks

Regularly inspecting near your hot water heater, under sinks, and near critical plumbing connections like your laundry machine can catch leaks before they do lasting damage. Installing leak detectors provides a convenient automation solution by notifying you when a leak is detected. Better yet, connecting your leak detectors with a water shutoff can automatically stop water flow. Neglecting water leaks can result in higher water bills, mold infestations, and structural damage.

Preventing issues is more than worthwhile whenever possible, and Modern Home Help can make it all easier. With our convenient app, you can prioritize your to-do list, schedule your dedicated handyperson, and request referrals to specialist service providers. Text (781) 694-6635 to learn more, or schedule a free walk-through now at ModernHomeHelp.com.